Topical Treatments for Vaginal Atrophy

Vaginal atrophy may be treated with a variety of creative preparations. Treatments are mosteffective when applied locally in the form of a cream or suppository.

Estradiol (E2) is available commercially as a 0.01% cream. Estriol (E3), a much weaker form of estrogen can be prepared by a compounding pharmacy, typically at a strength of 0.05%-0.2%.

In addition to estrogen, the hormone DHEA has recently been proven to relieve the symptoms of vaginal atrophy and regenerate the tissue’s cell growth1. Recent research of topically applied DHEA shows little, if any systemic absorption1. DHEA may also have some localized testosterone effects as it can be converted to either hormone.

These hormones may be prescribed alone, or in combination with non-hormonal treatments such as vitamin E, cocoa butter, estrogenic herbs as well as hyaluronic acid.